I am writing because of an apparent lack of resources assigned to the Health Ministry to correct a huge problem in this province.
I am waiting for hip replacement surgery. On the last contact that I have had with the surgeon I was told that I am on the six-month to one-year waiting list. This waiting list is not for the operation, but for a first visit for assessment. Then comes the six months to a year wait for the surgery itself.
In the meantime, it results in a life of pain relievers and staying at home. My life has changed from that of an active senior to a reclusive cripple unable to look after my house and property. I know there are many more people in the province who are in even worse shape than I am. People who are in even more pain and have even less mobility. Why are we all waiting in constant pain for two to three years for relief? I was told of a person in England who needed a hip replacement and it was over and done in five months. Is their economy in that much better shape?
You call this “elective” surgery and not life-threatening. I believe that it is life-threatening. I, and others, are giving away two to three years of our life waiting for a cure when there may not be too many more years available to us.
What is on the Liberals’ agenda to clear up this mess? I have not seen any mention of it in any of the campaign. Does this mean that it has a low priority or no priority? I am apolitical and will vote for the party that will solve problems. However, I think Tommy Douglas would be turning over in his grave if he saw the mess his health care system has become.
Marv Pickering
Parksville